Getting today’s weather or a forecast for the upcoming week is easy, but if you want to know what the weather might be 6 months from now – or whenever you’re planning your San Francisco trip – some averages may be more helpful.
If You’re Planning a San Francisco Vacation, go to the San Francisco vacation planner for more information
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A Few Things You May Not Know About San Francisco Weather
It’s a rare day when everything about San Francisco weather is exactly “average.” You can use the climate information above to get an idea of what things will be like, but the last time we checked, the city was not issuing any weather guarantees.
Average rainfall is particularly deceiving in California, mostly because it depends on what happens in the Pacific Ocean. When the ocean experiences El Nino conditions, it can rain a lot, but in other years, you’ll hardly see a drop all winter. Another thing to be aware of is that a whole month’s rainfall often comes in just a day or two.
Have you heard of June Gloom? If you’re not familiar with Pacific coastal weather patterns, this may sound wrong – but it’s true. June is San Francisco’s driest month. It’s also the month that gets the least sun, with lots of fog that keep things chilly. Some years, foggy, overcast conditions last longer than a month. May Gray moved into June Gloom and by July, the question is why?
It’s cold on June and July evenings. This isn’t a joke. I live her and I’m telling you how it really is, not the pretty visitors’ bureau version. Fog is wet. It generates a cold, damp wind as it comes in. I’ve been in the city on Fourth of July and New Year’s eve and the mid-summer night feels colder. It’s not contest, really.
Did I say it’s cold in summer? Just one more fact to strengthen that point: San Francisco has the coldest average temperatures of any major U.S. city in June, July, and August.
San Francisco is at its best in spring and fall, when skies are clearer and rain less likely.
No matter what it’s like during the day, San Francisco weather is almost always cool in the evening, especially near the ocean.
Some locals claim there’s a phenomenon called “earthquake weather” which is usually described as hot and dry. This myth goes all the way back to ancient Greece. Earthquakes start miles underground and happen in any weather.
San Francisco Weather Records
The highest recorded temperature in San Francisco was 103°F (39°C) on July 17, 1988, and June 14, 2000. The lowest was 27°F (−3°C) on December 11, 1932.
San Francisco by Month
You’ll find more specific suggestions in these month-by-month guides:
What to Expect from San Francisco in January
January is San Francisco’s wettest – and one of its coolest – months, in the middle of rainy season. Precipitation often comes as a storm, and it’s not uncommon to get the entire month’s rainfall in just a day or two. As the winter storms push eastward, the rains turns to snow at Lake Tahoe and sometimes in Yosemite.
San Francisco Weather in January
Average High Temperature: 57°F/14°C
Average Low Temperature: 44°F/7°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 4.06 inches (10.3 cm) rain, 56% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in January
Let’s start with the rain. For rainy days, an umbrella may not be your best choice. They’re hard to carry on crowded sidewalks and don’t protect from wind-driven raindrops. A warm, waterproof jacket with hood is a better idea – or a longer-length rain coat.
A mid-weight jacket (or a bit more) will be enough on dry days. Unless you’re going to the ski slopes, you can leave the heavy winter coat at home, but San Franciscans often wear gloves, hat and a scarf on cooler mornings.
San Francisco January Events
The Edwardian Ball: More fun than dressing up for Halloween, it’s a surreal mix of dance, fantasy and fun.
SF Restaurant Week: Special menus at some of San Francisco’s best restaurants give a chance to enjoy some really great meals at reduced prices.
Sea Lions at Pier 39: The crowd of barking pinnipeds that hang out near Pier 39 takes time off every year, but they’re back in January – and the folks at Pier 39 are ready to celebrate.
Chinese New Year: Lots of events celebrate the new year according to the Chinese calendar, including a big parade. It’s a lunar holiday that can happen in January or February and once in a while, the parade is in early March.
Especially Fun in January
If the weather tries to dampen your vacation fun, try these Things to Do on a Rainy Day in San Francisco
January is gray whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
A rainy January day is a good time to try one of the real San Francisco treats. Irish coffee first landed on U.S. shores in San Francisco and the bar that introduced it is still going strong. Find out more.
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in February
February is in the middle of San Francisco’s rainy season, when the monthly rainfall sometimes arrives all on the same day.
San Francisco Weather in February
Average High Temperature: 61°F/16°C
Average Low Temperature: 48°F/9°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 2.95 inches (7.4 cm) rain, 62% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in February
If rain is predicted, an umbrella may not be your best choice.
They’re hard to carry on crowded sidewalks and don’t protect from wind-driven raindrops. A warm, waterproof jacket with hood is a better choice – or a full-length rain coat.
A mid-weight jacket (or a bit more) will be enough on dry days. Unless you’re going to the ski slopes, you can leave the heavy winter coat at home, but San Franciscans often wear gloves, hat and scarf on cooler mornings.
San Francisco February Events
San Francisco Wine Competition: The judges are busy at the largest competition of American Wines in the world, but the general public can also get a chance to taste some of those great vintages. Sells out, so get tickets early.
Chinese New Year: Lots of events celebrate the new year according to the Chinese calendar, including a big parade. It’s a lunar holiday that can happen in January or February and once in a while, the parade is in early March.
Ocean Film Festival: One of the country’s more unusual fests features ocean-themed films.
Especially Fun in February
Writer George Sterling once called San Francisco the “cool, grey city of love” and we all know that singer Tony Bennett left his heart there.
What better place could you find to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Use these resources to plan your perfect little tryst.
February is gray whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
If the weather tries to turn your vacation into a soggy mess, try these Things to Do on a Rainy Day in San Francisco
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in March
In some years, winter rains extend into March. In others, it’s reasonably dry. Temperatures start to warm up and will be only a little cooler than in the warmest months.
San Francisco Weather in March
Average High Temperature: 62°F/17°C
Average Low Temperature: 48°F/9°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 3.07 inches (7.8 cm) rain, 69% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in March
Pack a mid-weight, slightly warm jacket.
Check the forecast for rain and consider a waterproof, hooded jacket or full-length coat if it’s predicted. Layered shirts and sweaters are your best fashion strategy this time of year.
San Francisco March Events
Chinese New Year: Lots of events celebrate the new year according to the Chinese calendar, including a big parade. It’s a lunar holiday that can happen in January or February and once in a while, the parade is in early March.
San Francisco Flower and Garden Show: Even if you never plant a garden yourself, this show may be worth a visit, just to see all the great displays.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The San Francisco Irish community celebrates their heritage. Lots of green.
Ocean Film Festival: One of the country’s more unusual fests features ocean-themed films.
Especially Fun in March
Major League Baseball season runs from March through early October and San Francisco has one of the prettiest stadiums around. If the San Francisco Giants are playing at home, watching a game is fun way to spend a few hours.
We like afternoon games better than night because it’s warmer.
March is gray whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
Rain often starts tapering off by March, but if precipitation happens, try these Things to Do on a Rainy Day in San Francisco
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in April
Most years, winter rains end by April. In an “El Nino” year, ocean currents bring California more rain than usual, and you can get wet until the middle of the month or later.
Nevertheless, April is San Francisco’s sunniest month (on average).
San Francisco Weather in April
Average High Temperature: 63°F/17°C
Average Low Temperature: 49°F/9°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 1.29 inches (3.3 cm) rain, 74% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in April
April is often warm enough mid-day that you can get by with a couple of layers, but you’ll need a bit more for evenings. It might seem a little early in the year for this, but April often has the most sunny days and a hat may be welcome.
San Francisco April Events
San Francisco International Film Festival: This film fest features films you might never see anywhere else.
Cherry Blossom Festival: Held in Japantown, it celebrates Japanese culture.
Opening Day on the Bay: It’s like a big parade, but on the water instead of land, with yachts of all sizes decorated for the event.
How Weird Street Fair: The name is a clue to what you might be saying afterward, but if you like funky and unusual, it’s worth a try.
Especially Fun in April
The San Francisco Botanical Garden and Japanese Tea Garden are full of blossoms this time of year.
April is gray whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
Major League Baseball season runs from March through early October and San Francisco has one of the prettiest stadiums around.
If the San Francisco Giants are playing at home, watching a game is fun way to spend a few hours. We like afternoon games better than night because it’s warmer.
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in May
May begins the drier part of the year, with continued sunshine and even less rain than April.
San Francisco Weather in May
Average High Temperature: 65°F/18°C
Average Low Temperature: 51°F/11°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) rain, 72% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in May
Pack a mid-weight jacket, especially for evenings. Bring short-sleeved shirts and lightweight pants, with a warmer layer.
For sunny days, a hat is a good idea.
San Francisco May Events
Bay to Breakers Race: It’s one of the most popular 12K races in the country. It’s also famous for the inventive costumes people wear while running (and for the few runners who wear nothing at all). The route goes from The Embarcadero, across town, through Golden Gate Park and ends at the ocean.
Carnaval San Francisco: In case you can’t get to Rio or New Orleans, San Francisco’s parade features great costumes, beautiful people and lots of fun.
Tour of California: A multi-day bicycle race like the Tour de France, it often passes through the San Francisco area, although not through the city itself.
Especially Fun in May
In the United States, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. Use the California Mother’s Day Guide to find some ideas Mom is sure to love.
The first big summer holiday, Memorial Day happens on the last Monday of May. Get some ideas for things to do.
May is the end of gray whale season and the start of humpback whale season around San Francisco.
Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
Major League Baseball season runs from March through early October and San Francisco has one of the prettiest stadiums around. If the San Francisco Giants are playing at home, watching a game is a fun way to spend a few hours. We like afternoon games better than night because it’s warmer.
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in June
Summer is when San Francisco weather starts to depart from the sunny California stereotype. As temperatures start to climb, heat and geography conspire to pull moisture into the city from the ocean, sometimes resulting in fog so dense that the sun never breaks through it.
San Franciscans get so used to cool weather that a forecast of moderate highs once posted twitter @KarltheFog to quip: “San Francisco is currently experiencing a heat wave in the mid-70s.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated & wear their only pair of shorts.”
San Francisco Weather in June
Average High Temperature: 68°F/20°C
Average Low Temperature: 53°F/12°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 0.15 inches (0.4 cm) rain, 73% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in June
Check the forecast for predicted highs and lows, but expect to be packing warmer things than you might have anticipated. Fog is cold stuff and it’s not unusual to see San Franciscans wearing hats, light gloves and scarves on a foggy evening. It’s not very likely to rain, but since you’re bringing a jacket anyway, it won’t hurt if it’s a waterproof one.
With an average high for the month of 68°F, you might be comfortable in shorts on a sunny day, but they could be a bit too cool if you’re going on a bay cruise or out to Alcatraz – and by the time the day’s low in the mid-50s is reached, you’ll feel better if your legs are covered.
San Francisco June Events
San Francisco Pride: A celebration of the heritage and culture of the lesbian gay, bisexual and transgender community, with a big parade that’s one of the year’s best.
North Beach Festival: An Italian-themed street fair, with good food and music. Fun extras include Assisi Animal Blessings and Arte di Gesso (Italian street chalk art).
Union Street Festival: One of the city’s oldest street fairs, featuring arts and crafts, food and music – and with a large area reserved for eco-friendly vendors.
Haight Ashbury Street Fair: Celebrates the neighborhood with arts and crafts, food booths, musical stages and family activities.
Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon: No prisoner ever escaped from Alcatraz, but these athletes do, starting with a 1.5-mile swim through frigid waters.
San Francisco Jazz Festival: The SF Jazz Center hosts performances year round, but their big festival is this month.
Especially Fun in June
Summer is the time for outdoor concerts and June through August is the season for the Stern Grove Festival. You can’t beat the performers, the price (free) or the laid-back San Francisco ambiance at this outdoor summer concert series.
When the summer sun goes down, you’ll find some fun things that you can’t do any other time of year. Check them out in the guide to San Francisco Summer Nights
Major League Baseball season runs from March through early October and San Francisco has one of the prettiest stadiums around. If the San Francisco Giants are playing at home, watching a game is fun way to spend a few hours. We like afternoon games better than night because it’s warmer.
June is humpback whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
In the United States, Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June. Use the California Father’s Day Guide to find some fun ideas for good ol’ Dad that are a lot more fun than buying him a tie.
If you get caught feeling half-frozen on a foggy day, it’s a good time to try one of the real San Francisco treats. Irish coffee first landed on US shores in San Francisco and the bar that introduced it is still going strong. Find out where to get one.
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. You may not believe it, but a summer day can be so chilly, you’ll wish you packed your parka.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in July
By July, San Francisco’s typical weather pattern includes lots of fog and on the average, you’ll encounter fewer days of sunshine than in the spring or fall. That fog is wet and the winds that accompany it make it all feel much cooler than the thermometer reading might imply.
“Isn’t this California?” you may ask. Of course it is, but think about it – all those television shows and movies that gave you the idea that the whole state is sunny were filmed in Los Angeles, weren’t they?
For the same reasons, July isn’t the best month to go to the beach in San Francisco. It’s likely to be gray and foggy, and the water is frigid.
San Francisco Weather in July
Average High Temperature: 69°F/21°C
Average Low Temperature: 55°F/13°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 0.04 inches (0.1 cm) rain, 66% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in July
Many visitors find it hard to believe, but July is not month for shorts and tank tops in San Francisco. Cold fog and breezes can easily make Fourth of July night can feel colder than New Year’s Eve.
To watch San Francisco’s Fourth of July fireworks, I wear warm, full-length pants and take 3 to 4 layers of long-sleeved shirts and/or sweatshirts. If you aren’t prepared for it with proper clothing, you will most likely be improving the local economy by purchasing warmer clothes from a street vendor. Or heading for a warmer spot before the fireworks start.
Foggy, gray skies often make visitors from other areas think it’s going to rain, but July is one of the driest months.
You’re not likely to need an umbrella or rain coat, but the fog can make you damp and miserable, so a hooded jacket is a good idea.
San Francisco July Events
Independence Day in San Francisco: There’s a day-long celebration, capped by twin fireworks displays over the waterfront.
Fillmore Jazz Festival: Jazz music is the focus here, along with some great food.
San Francisco Marathon: Runners in this unique, urban marathon get a good tour of the city – which can make it hard for the rest of us to get around until they’re done.
Berkeley Kite Festival: Colorful festival of kites pleasing crowds for over 30 years
Especially Fun in July
Summer is the time for outdoor concerts and June through August is the season for the Stern Grove Festival. You can’t beat the performers, the price (free) or the laid-back San Francisco ambiance at this outdoor summer concert series.
July is blue whale and humpback whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
If you get caught feeling half-frozen on a foggy day, it’s a good time to try one of the real San Francisco treats. Irish coffee first landed on US shores in San Francisco and the bar that introduced it is still going strong. Find out more.
After the sun goes down in July, you’ll find some fun things that you can’t do any other time of year. Check them out in the guide to San Francisco Summer Nights
Major League Baseball season runs from March through early October and San Francisco has one of the prettiest stadiums around. If the San Francisco Giants are playing at home, watching a game is fun way to spend a few hours. We like afternoon games better than night because it’s warmer.
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in August
August is much like July in San Francisco, with lots of fog and overcast days.
San Francisco Weather in August
Average High Temperature: 70°F/21°C
Average Low Temperature: 56°F/13°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 0.07 inches (0.2 cm) rain, 66% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in August
August is one of San Francisco’s driest months, so rain gear isn’t needed, but a warm, hooded jacket will be welcome if you’re out in the fog.
Shorts may sound like a good idea, but you could end up with some pretty cold legs if you’re in them on the wrong day.
San Francisco August Events
Outside Lands Festival: A music, food, wine and art festival, held in Golden Gate Park
Eat Drink SF: This big event at Fort Mason is all about just what its name says: Great food and drink in San Francisco. It includes a wide range of seminars and three general admission events.
Nihonmachi Street Fair: Held in Japantown, but celebrating all aspects of Asian-Pacific American life. Events include traditional dances, musical performances and a muscle car show.
Especially Fun in August
August is a good month to check out some of San Francisco’s best beaches.
August is the final month of the season for the Stern Grove Festival. You can’t beat the performers, the price (free) or the laid-back San Francisco ambiance at this outdoor summer concert series.
August is blue whale and humpback whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
Major League Baseball season runs from March through early October and San Francisco has one of the prettiest stadiums around. If the San Francisco Giants are playing at home, watching a game is fun way to spend a few hours. We like afternoon games better than night because it’s warmer.
Summer evening activities continue through August. Check them out in the guide to San Francisco Summer Nights
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in September
September brings clearer weather in most years, with warmer temperatures on average than in July and August. On a statistical basis, September is San Francisco’s warmest month and one of its driest.
San Francisco Weather in September
Average High Temperature: 73°F/23°C
Average Low Temperature: 56°F/13°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 0.26 inches (0.7 cm) rain, 72% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in September
With less fog and no rain, light layers will usually be plenty. An extra jacket or layer will feel nice in the evening. Rainfall is generally unlikely, but if your jacket is rainproof, it can do double duty.
Big Holiday in September
Labor Day Weekend in California
San Francisco September Events
Fringe Festival: If you like the avant garde, this one’s for you, self-described as presenting “exciting, uncensored, indie theater.”
Autumn Moon Festival: This fall festival celebrates the glories and mysteries of the moon
Dragon Boat Festival: The festival is one of the most important in Chinese culture and the boat races are fun to watch.
Folsom Street Fair: Self-described as a leather event, “providing the adult alternative lifestyle community safe venues for self-expression, emphasizing freedom, fun and frolic, while raising money to benefit San Francisco charities.” You’ll see lots of leather at this gay lifestyle fair (and lots of bare skin, too).
Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival: A two-day chocolate celebration whose proceeds go to charity. Where the calories go, we aren’t going to say.
Especially Fun in September
September’s warmer temperatures and sunnier days make it a good time to check out some of San Francisco’s best beaches.
September is blue whale and humpback whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
Major League Baseball season runs from March through early October and San Francisco has one of the prettiest stadiums around. If the San Francisco Giants are playing at home, watching a game is fun way to spend a few hours. We like afternoon games better than night because it’s warmer.
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in October
October stays warm and days are often clear, but it’s slightly more likely to rain (in general).
San Francisco Weather in October
Average High Temperature: 70°F/21°C
Average Low Temperature: 54°F/12°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 1.26 inches (3.2 cm) rain, 71% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in October
With less fog and only a small chance of rain, light layers will usually be plenty.
An extra jacket or layer will feel nice in the evening. Rainfall starts to become more likely, it’s always best to check the forecast
San Francisco October Events
Fleet Week: The air shows (which often feature the Blue Angels) are awesome, but there’s more – including tours of visiting ships and a boat parade.
Italian Heritage (Columbus Day) Parade: This event is almost as old as the city itself. The parade runs along Columbus, ending at Washington Square.
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass: This free music event in Golden Gate Park features performers like Elvis Costello, Boz Scaggs and Emmy Lou Harris.
Especially Fun in October
The big street party doesn’t happen any more, but you’ll find lots of Halloween-themed activities and down in Half Moon Bay, there’s big Pumpkin Festival.
October is blue whale and humpback whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
October weather is also very nice in general, making it a good time to take a day trip drive up to Napa Valley or down to Monterey.
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in November
November is one of San Francisco’s wettest months. On the average. In some years, it’s clear and nice.
San Francisco Weather in November
Average High Temperature: 63°F/17°C
Average Low Temperature: 50°F/10°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 3.21 inches (8.2 cm) rain, 62% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in November
Your best bet is to check the short-range forecast before you go, but we’ve seen even that change dramatically over a few days.
Be prepared for moderate temperatures and bring some rain gear just in case. For that, a hooded jacket is a better idea than an umbrella. Layers area also a strategy, a lot of them so you can adjust to match the weather.
San Francisco November Events
Run Wild: The costumes are about as outrageous as those in Bay to Breakers and its timing right after Thanksgiving makes it a good way to run off all that turkey and trimmings.
Dickens Fair Begins: Thanksgiving weekend marks the beginning of a Dickens of a celebration at the Cow Palace. You might be excused for thinking you stepped into a time warp when you walk in the door of this fun celebration of Christmas past. All the details are in the Dickens Fair Guide.
Christmas is Coming: The run-up to the holiday starts at Thanksgiving and a lot of outdoor trees, skating rinks and other festivities start that weekend. Here’s a preview of Christmas in San Francisco
Especially Fun in November
Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, and the following Friday is often a work holiday.
Check the Thanksgiving guide to find out what special events happen then.
November is the end of humpback whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
If the weather tries to rain on your vacation, try these Things to Do on a Rainy Day in San Francisco
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.
What to Expect from San Francisco in December
You won’t find a white Christmas in San Francisco unless you head for Lake Tahoe, but December is in the rainy season and prone to winter storms. It’s also the month with the least sunshine and one of the coldest.
San Francisco Weather in December
Average High Temperature: 57°F/14°C
Average Low Temperature: 45°F/7°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 3.1 inches (7.9 cm) rain, 45% sunshine
What to Pack, What to Wear in December
Your best bet is to check the short-range forecast before you go, but from the track record we’ve seen, it’s hard thing to get the San Francisco weather forecast right and things could change in just a few days, after your bags are packed. Be prepared for moderate temperatures and bring some rain gear just in case. For that, a hooded jacket is a better idea than an umbrella. Layers are also a strategy, a lot of them so you can adjust to match the weather.
San Francisco December Events
December is more or less consumed with preparations for Christmas – and celebrating the new year.
Christmas in San Francisco: San Franciscans have a batch of Christmas traditions uniquely their own, including a lighted city skyline and some great musical events.
New Year’s Eve: Indoors and out, there will be parties and public celebrations. In San Francisco, that normally includes fireworks at midnight on December 31, which happen behind the Ferry Building at the end of Market Street.
Especially Fun in December
We love the lights that outline the Embarcadero Center every holiday season. They’re prettiest when viewed from Treasure Island (halfway across the Bay Bridge) at twilight. If the weather tries to rain on your vacation, try these Things to Do on a Rainy Day in San Francisco
December is gray whale season around San Francisco. Find out how, when and where in the San Francisco Whale Watching Guide.
Averages and Reality
Use the weather averages to get an idea of what things may be like, but it might be different when you visit. A winter day could even be so warm you’ll wish you packed your shorts.
Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don’t count on your trip being “average.” Check the San Francisco weather forecast before you leave home.